Black Cats legend Peter Reid shows Pilgrims the Academy of Light

PLYMOUTH Argyle used Sunderland's superb training facilities at the Academy of Light yesterday to prepare for their game away to Carlisle United tonight.

And there was an especially warm welcome for Pilgrims' boss Peter Reid.

Reid was manager of Sunderland from 1995 to 2002 and twice led them to promotion to the Premier League.

The Academy of Light opened shortly before Reid was dismissed by the Black Cats.

When Reid was appointed by Sunderland, they were struggling in Division One, now called the Championship.

On his departure, they were established in the Premier League and also playing at a new venue, the impressive Stadium of Light.

So when Reid reflects on his time with the Wearside club he does so with some pride.

He told The Herald: "This is a great football club. I had seven-and-a-half years here, which is a long time as a manager.

"I had a really good time. I loved it. And now (manager) Steve Bruce and (chairman) Niall Quinn are doing a great job.

"I think you are looking at a club which is geared for success.

"When I arrived at the club, we were fourth from bottom in Division One with seven games to go.

"And we changed in temporary buildings at the old training ground we had.

"When I left, they were in the Premier League with a new stadium and a new training ground.

"So, in terms of doing a job for the club, I think that speaks volumes. I'm quite proud of it really."

Reid saw some familiar faces on his return to the Academy of Light.

He said: "These facilities are absolutely fantastic. I only had a couple of weeks before I lost my job, but I have still got a lot of friends around here. The groundsman is still the same, and so are some of the academy coaching staff. I spoke to (youth team coach) Kevin Ball."

The Academy of Light has between 12 and 18 pitches depending on the sizes they are marked out to.

They include a replica of the one at the Stadium of Light, which the first team use.

The two-level training complex, which is on the outskirts of Sunderland, also boasts extensive medical and rehabilitation facilities and a hydrotherapy suite.

In addition, there is a gym and weights room and a refectory where meals are provided for the players.

It is all a far cry from what the Argyle players are used to, and a glimpse into life at a top Premier League club.

But thanks to Reid's close connections with Sunderland, the Pilgrims' squad were welcomed with open arms yesterday.

Reid added: "When you look around here, it's one of the best there is. And Steve (Bruce) and Niall (Quinn) have been fantastic with us.

"They even made sure there was some lunch for us."

Argyle have been based at the four-star Redworth Hall Hotel, which is north west of Darlington, since last Friday.

It is set in 150 acres of County Durham woodland, with the Jacobean Manor House dating back to 1693.

It still has many of the original features, including the Great Hall, the ornate staircase and lavishly decorated lounges. More importantly for the Argyle players, it also has excellent leisure facilities.

The Pilgrims returned to the bottom of League One after their 2-0 defeat at Hartlepool United on Saturday.

So they are desperate for a victory over Carlisle to keep alive their chances of escaping relegation.

Reid admitted staying in the North East, rather than making separate trips for the two matches, had been a boost for the players.

He said: "The games are physically demanding, and it has given them a chance to recover instead of travelling, which is a massive benefit.

"They had a free day on Sunday and I just told them to go in the leisure club and have a stretch, which they did."

Comments

Personal opinion.
I feel Argyle should throw all caution to the wind for their remaining matches and just tell the world "we're going for the win!" Play 4.3.3. and let the devil take the hindmost. There is simply nothing to lose.